Arsenal have firmly rejected an offer from Saudi Pro League (SPL) club Al Ittihad for Belgian attacking midfielder Leandro Trossard, according to The Athletic reporter David Ornstein.
Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported on Monday morning that the Saudi club are keen to bolster their squad before the Middle East’s transfer window closes.
Trossard had emerged as a serious option for the SPL giants, and they presented Arsenal with a verbal proposal worth approximately £29.4 million.
The offer included a £4.2m loan fee and an obligation to buy Trossard for £16.8-21m at the end of the season.
However, Arsenal were quick to dismiss the bid. The Gunners have made it abundantly clear that Trossard is a vital part of their Premier League title-chasing squad and is not available for sale at any price.
The 29-year-old joined Arsenal from Brighton & Hove Albion in January last year and has been a valuable contributor to the club’s title ambitions.
Trossard has scored 19 goals and provided 12 assists in 71 appearances for the Gunners and remains a vital part of Arteta’s long-term plans at the Emirates Stadium.
Despite the lucrative financial incentives offered by Al Ittihad, Trossard appears content to remain at Arsenal despite the recent arrival of Raheem Sterling from Chelsea.
The SPL giants could easily triple his £90,000 per week wages in north London, but he prefers to remain at the club and help Arteta’s side challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title.
The Belgian international has been a key player for Mikel Arteta’s side, even if he hasn’t been a regular starter.
He came off the bench to score the opener in the 2-0 victory at Aston Villa a fortnight ago, opening his goalscoring account for the season after three Premier League games.
The Gunners are looking to win the Premier League title this term, and they need all their important players if they are to have any chance against the reigning champions.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
